Endometriosis is a painful disease that arises when tissues similar to the endometrium tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grow outside the uterus. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taner Usta, specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology, shared with us the answer to the question “How is the chocolate cyst noticed?” and all the detailed information about the disease.Y
Endometriosis, also known among the public as the chocolate cyst, occurs most often in the tissue covering the ovaries, the fallopian tubes and the cervix.
Rarely, endometrial tissue can also spread outside the pelvic organs. In the chocolate cyst, the endometrium-like tissue thickens and bleeds with every menstrual cycle. However, because this tissue has no way out of the body, it stays where it is.
When endometriosis occurs in the ovaries, various cysts can form. By irritating the surrounding tissues it leads to the appearance of scar tissue or adhesions. The chocolate cyst in particular paves the way for the menstrual cycle to be extremely painful.
WHAT ARE ITS SIGNS?
The most common sign of the chocolate cyst is pelvic pain that increases during the menstrual cycle. Cramps that are more painful than normal are also seen. The pain increases progressively during the cycle. In situations where the menstrual cycle is prolonged, lower back and abdominal pain also appear.
In addition, pain occurring during and after sexual intercourse is also among the signs of the chocolate cyst. Pain when going to the toilet during the period, excessive bleeding and infertility are also some of the signs of the chocolate cyst.
Tiredness during the period, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating or severe nausea are, although rarely, among the symptoms that point to the chocolate cyst. With these signs, the chocolate cyst can sometimes be confused with pelvic inflammatory disease or ovarian cysts.
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
Many women experience pelvic pain during the menstrual cycle. However, the period being very difficult and painful can be caused by the chocolate cyst. In a normal pelvic examination, a cyst or scar tissue can be identified. However, this is not sufficient for a diagnosis of the chocolate cyst.
For a full diagnosis, imaging technologies such as ultrasound or MRI are used. In addition, diagnostic laparoscopy is also preferred in diagnosing the chocolate cyst. In the ultrasound imaging method, the reproductive organs are imaged with high-frequency sound waves.
In MRI, a large magnet, radio waves and a computer are used. MRI tests also help the specialist doctor to prepare for chocolate cyst surgery. Laparoscopy is carried out through a small incision made below the navel.